NCERT Class 9 Arts Madhurima: Chapter 10 — Components of Dance
This chapter, 'Dance,' from the NCERT Class 9 Arts Madhurima textbook, introduces students to the multifaceted world of dance. It begins by defining Abhinaya, the art of expression in dance, as a four-fold concept: āṅgika (body gestures), vāchika (speech/vocals), āhārya (costumes/make-up), and sāttvika (mental states/emotions), referencing the Nāṭyaśhāstra. The chapter aims to enhance students' creativity through movement, revising concepts like posture, movement, and rhythm. It introduces new techniques such as abhinaya and choreography, and explores various Indian and global dance forms, emphasizing cultural diversity. Students will learn to apply expressive tools, understand dance as a cultural connection, and explore contemporary Indian dance. The chapter promotes teamwork, collaboration, and the understanding that dance is accessible to everyone, fostering equality and sensitivity. It also outlines the requirements for a conducive dance classroom environment.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 9 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Madhurima |
| Chapter | Chapter 10 — Components of Dance |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 361 |
Learning outcomes
- Develop knowledge of posture, line, and disposition in dance.
- Recall and revise concepts of posture, movement, rhythm, rasa, and bhāva.
- Apply the tools of expression (abhinaya) as a communicative device.
- Be introduced to various Indian and global dance forms and cultural diversity.
- Understand dance as cultural connections and performance traditions.
- Collaborate and create solo and group choreographies.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Abhinaya | The art of expression in dance, encompassing body gestures, speech, costumes, and emotions. |
| Āṅgika | Body gestures used in dance expression. |
| Vāchika | Speech or vocal expression in dance. |
| Āhārya | Costumes and make-up used for expression in dance. |
| Sāttvika | Mental states or emotions conveyed through dance. |
| Posture | The way a dancer holds their body. |
| Movement | The act of changing position or place. |
| Rhythm | A strong, regular, repeated pattern of movement or sound. |
| Rasa | The aesthetic flavor or essence of a dramatic or poetic work, experienced by the audience. |
| Bhāva | The emotion or sentiment conveyed by the performer. |
| Choreography | The art of designing and arranging dance movements. |
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Practice questions
- According to the Nāṭyaśhāstra, what are the four types of Abhinaya? Answer: The four types of Abhinaya are āṅgika (body gestures), vāchika (speech/vocals), āhārya (costumes and make-up), and sāttvika (mental states/emotions).
- What is the role of āṅgika in dance? Answer: Āṅgika refers to the body gestures used to express meaning and emotion in dance.
- What does the term 'sāttvika' refer to in the context of dance expression? Answer: Sāttvika refers to the expression of mental states and emotions through dance.
- What are some of the concepts students will recall and revise from previous grades? Answer: Students will recall and revise concepts of posture, movement, rhythm, rasa, and bhāva.
- What is choreography? Answer: Choreography is the art of designing and arranging dance movements.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main focus of the NCERT Class 9 Arts 'Dance' chapter?
The chapter focuses on enhancing creativity through movement, exploring Abhinaya (expression), various dance forms, and choreography.
What are the four types of Abhinaya mentioned in the chapter?
The four types are āṅgika (body gestures), vāchika (speech/vocals), āhārya (costumes/make-up), and sāttvika (mental states/emotions).
What concepts will students revise from previous grades?
Students will revise concepts of posture, movement, rhythm, rasa, and bhāva.
What new techniques are introduced in Grade 9 Dance?
New techniques introduced include abhinaya, choreography, and global dance forms.
What is the importance of teamwork in dance as highlighted in the chapter?
The chapter emphasizes the importance of teamwork and collaborative effort in producing dance performances.
What kind of environment is needed for a dance classroom?
A dance classroom needs a spacious hall with ample space, good ventilation, adequate lighting, and a space for showcasing work.
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NCERT Class 9 Arts — Madhurima — Chapter 10 — Components of Dance. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.